MODELLING AND 3D PRINTING OF MARINE PROPELLER

A propeller functions as a fan-like mechanism comprising a central hub connected to blades arranged radially around it. It operates by harnessing power generated by the ship’s engine, which is transmitted through a shaft mechanism. This power is then converted into rotational motion, causing the blades to spin and generate thrust, propelling the ship forward through the water. These blades impart a thrust force that transmits momentum to the water and drives the ship forward. The design of these propellers and their methods of manufacture ultimately determine their overall efficiency. Traditional manufacturing processes for propellers often involve complex casting or machining techniques, which can be time-consuming and costly. With the advent of additive manufacturing, particularly 3D printing, there has been a paradigm shift in the fabrication of marine propellers. This project explores the latest advancements in modelling and 3D printing techniques for marine propellers, focusing on their design optimization, material selection to optimize the performance. Utilizing Advanced Computer-Aided Design (CAD) software, a detailed digital representation of the Marine propeller will be created. Subsequently Additive Manufacturing techniques were employed to produce physical prototypes. A CAD model was built using SolidWorks (2022) software in the form of SLDPRT format, and that file will be saved as a STL file. Then, it will be sent to a 3D printer for printing of the part using 3D printing technology, which converts the digital design of the object into a physical part.